Free & Easy Ellis Washcloth Crochet Pattern: Best Stitch for Washcloths?

Introducing the Ellis Washcloth, a versatile and beginner-friendly free crochet washcloth pattern that brings texture and function together beautifully! This design features the single crochet two together (sc2tog) stitch, which I first fell in love with while designing my section of the Tranquility Blanket CAL. Its gorgeous, squishy texture immediately stood out to me as perfect for so many projects, from cozy blankets to functional washcloths.

What makes this stitch so special? The sc2tog creates a dense, closed fabric without any large gaps, making it ideal for practical uses like washcloths, where durability and performance are key. By working into the back loop only, subtle ridges are formed, adding just the right amount of texture. This texture isn’t just visually appealing—it’s functional too! The ridges provide a gentle grip, perfect for tackling dirt while being soft enough for everyday use.

Whether you’re looking for a quick stash-busting project or the perfect handmade gift, the Ellis Washcloth is a fantastic choice. Its combination of practicality and beauty makes it a joy to crochet and a treat to use.

Please note, this post may contain affiliate links – should you purchase anything using my affiliate link I may get a small commission at no extra cost to yourself!

Inspiration behind the design

The inspiration for the Ellis Washcloth came from my love for the sc2tog stitch and its amazing versatility. Ever since I used it in my Tranquility Blanket CAL section, I’ve been wanting to explore more designs that showcase its beautiful, squishy texture.

The From Us to You Event (which I co-host with SandraStitches), gave me the perfect opportunity to use this stitch again..

This event celebrates the spirit of giving by focusing on quick, easy crochet patterns that are ideal for donating. Washcloths are one of the best donation items—they’re practical, appreciated, and a fantastic way to make a difference. Plus, they’re the perfect canvas for practicing a new stitch! With the Ellis Washcloth, I wanted to create a project that was not only fun and satisfying to crochet but also functional and meaningful for those who receive it. Whether you’re donating to the cause or making some for your own home, this pattern is a lovely way to give back while trying out a beautiful stitch.

Construction of the design

This free crochet washcloth pattern – the Ellis Washcloth–  is worked flat in rows, making it a straightforward and beginner-friendly project.

The design keeps things simple while highlighting the gorgeous texture of the sc2tog stitch. For me, this may well be the best crochet stitch for washcloths that I have come across!

For a clean, polished look, I’ve included an optional border, but I found that my first version didn’t need one—sometimes, the stitch pattern speaks for itself! If you do choose to add a border, it’s a great way to personalize the washcloth or experiment with different finishing techniques.

Handy Hint: Before you get started, be sure to read through the pattern notes carefully. One key detail is that you don’t skip any stitches after the Ch 1 at the beginning of a row—this ensures you maintain the correct stitch count throughout the project. Paying attention to this small detail will help you achieve the even, tidy edges that make this washcloth as practical as it is pretty.

The Yarn

When it comes to the Ellis Washcloth, choosing the right yarn is key to making the most of this free crochet washcloth pattern. I highly recommend using cotton or a high cotton blend yarn for this project. Cotton is the best yarn for a crochet washcloth because it is durable, easy to care for, and holds up beautifully even after countless washes. You can simply toss it in the washing machine with your towels and enjoy a washcloth that looks as good as new for years to come.

Cotton yarn is also incredibly strong, making it ideal for a hardworking washcloth that won’t wear out quickly. And let’s not forget the amazing range of colors available—you can easily find a shade to suit your personal style, your bathroom decor, or even the preferences of someone you’re gifting it to. Whether you’re making washcloths for donation, practice, or personal use, cotton yarn ensures your finished piece is both practical and beautiful!

I used this yarn from my local HobbyCraft Store. Is a rico yarn so should be available elsewhere if you are wanting to use this particular yarn. The cotton itself is woven so the yarn does not split when you are working with it. Incidentally this also makes it great for absorbing water and soap etc!

Can I Get the PDF pattern?

I have decided not to sell this one as a stand alone pattern in my shops at the moment – it might show up in a bundle of patterns at some point. 

But I can absolutely contribute the pdf in events every now and again! And the pattern will always be free on my blog post below!!

SC2Tog stitch tutorial:

The SC2Tog is worked over 2 stitches. Insert hook into first stitch, Yarn Over and pull through, insert hook into next stitch, Yarn Over and pull through. Yarn Over and pull through all 3 loops on hook. 

See photo tutorial below.

Back Loop Only:

You will be working the SC2Tog into the back loop only rather than through both loops for this free crochet washcloth pattern. See the photo tutorial below for where this loop is. The front and the back loops will sit at the top of your work.

Did you know that working the SC2Tog into the back loop only and chaining 1 is also known as the single crochet cluster stitch?

The Free Ellis Crochet Washcloth Pattern Specifics:

Materials:

#4 weight cotton yarn of your choosing – you will need approx. 65 yards 5mm hook Scissors Tapestry needle  Stitch Markers optional to mark first or last stitch of the row. Measuring Tape optional.

Gauge:

Does not matter as long as tension is consistent. My gauge was 22 sts and 11 rows of pattern per 4”.

Sizing:

Once completed your washcloth will be approximately 8” square without the border or approximately 8.75” square with the border.

Abbreviations used:

Ch(s) – chain(s).              St(s) – stitch(es)              SC- single crochet           HDC – half double crochet SC2Tog – single crochet 2 together BLO – back loop only Sk – sjip YO – yarn over FO – Fasten off

Other notes:

– Written in US terms – Chain 1 starts do not count as a stitch – Ch1 after the sc2tog st do count as stitches. – You do NOT sk1 after the ch1 following the sc2tog st. This maintains the st count.

The Pattern:

** This is a free pattern on the SunflowerCottageCrochet.com blog. If you are reading this anywhere else it is stolen content. Please do not copy and paste any part of it or print this pattern out. Please bookmark this page and use the website to work up your pattern. This helps my small business greatly as it provides a little bit of ad revenue which will in turn will allow me to continue to create free content for you!**

Row 1:           Ch 43, sk first 2 chains (counts as a HDC), *SC2tog over next 2 sts, ch1* Rep from * to * across until you have 1 st remaining, HDC in last st. (40 – 2 HDC, 19 SC2Tog, 19 Ch1)

Note: remember you do NOT sk1 after the ch1 st. This maintains the st count and creates a square washcloth.

Row 2:           Turn, Ch1, HDC in first st, *SC2tog over next 2 sts, ch1* Rep from * to * across until you have 1 st remaining, HDC in last st. (40 – 2 HDC, 19 SC2Tog, 19 Ch1)

Rows 3 on:   Rep row 2 until your washcloth is square.

If you are going to work a border do not FO.

If you are not working a border, FO and weave in ends.

Optional border:

You may not need a border but if you decide to I recommend a simple 1 round of hdc:

Turn, Ch1, work 2 HDC in first st, HDC in each st across to the last st of the row. In the last st work [2HDC, CH2, 2HDC]

Turn your work 90 degrees so you are working down the side, and work HDC evenly down the side until you reach the final st of the side (I found 5 sts every 4 rows worked well for me. If you work too many, your edge will start to ruffle, too few and your edge will kink in on itself). In the last st work [2HDC, CH2, 2HDC].

Turn your work so you are now working along the bottom of your blanket. HDC in each st across to the last st of the row. In the last st work [2HDC, CH2, 2HDC].

Turn your work 90 degrees so you are working up the final side, and work HDC evenly up the side until you reach the final st of the side. In the last st work [2HDC, CH2,]. SS to first HDC to join.

FO and weave in ends.

Don’t forget to tag me in your Ellis Washcloth pattern makes on Instagram and Facebook!

This Pattern Featured in:

The From Us to You Donation Challenge in November 2024